Be sure to drink your Ovaltine

The holiday season got off to an early start in my household. It started with this post, and has continued with lots of shopping, eating and movie watching. Having a 2 year old gives me more excuses to act like a child. It’s meant more time in front of the TV, exploring all kinds of Christmas related movies, specials and TV shows.

In terms of Christmas themed viewing, I’ve watched everything from A Christmas Carol with Jim Carrey, Dreamworks Christmas Specials, the British version of The Office Special, Christmas Vacation, Die Hard, Yo Gabba Gabbba!, Only Fools and Horses, White Christmas, Elf, and a few more.

The brilliant David Brent in The Office

In fact, I feel like I’m at a good point to list my (3) favorite Christmas films. I know you may disagree, so please feel free to share yours.

At #3 –

A Christmas Story. It’s about as Indiana as you get. The town is based on Hammond, Indiana and features numerous mentions of the State, including the Indianapolis 500. It appeals to the kid in all of us and offers so many funny parts – tongue on the flagpole, the Oldsmobile pit stop, triple dog dares, the ‘fragile’ lamp, etc. Ralphie’s house is now even a museum (although it’s in Cleveland, where most of the movie was shot). It’s a classic and I’ve been watching it for 25 years now.

Christmas Story inspired cookies

In 2nd place –

Miracle on 34th Street. Maybe it’s because they cast the most perfect Santa Claus in the history of Santa Clauses. Maybe it’s the black and white film, the fashion, the era. Who knows. Maybe it’s the legal battle that ensues, with Santa sitting in a court room. Or maybe it’s just the general feel-goodness of the film. It’s the type of film that leaves you with a smile on your face. Only watch the original. Trust me.

Santa! Edmund Gwenn in Miracle on 34th Street

And my #1 –

It’s a Wonderful Life. Who doesn’t want to be George Bailey, or James Stewart for the matter. It’s a beautiful story – the perfect black and white film and a storyline that Dickens himself could have written. It illustrates the ups and downs of life, the connections we make over a lifetime and the surprises life often presents. I’m a sucker for this film.

Strange, isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?